I Tested 100 Amp Direct Burial Wire: My Honest Review and Installation Tips
When I first started tackling outdoor electrical projects, I quickly realized that choosing the right wiring was crucial—not just for performance, but for safety and durability too. That’s where 100 Amp Direct Burial Wire comes into play. Designed to withstand the elements and deliver reliable power underground, this type of wire has become my go-to solution for everything from home service upgrades to outdoor lighting installations. In this article, I want to share why 100 Amp Direct Burial Wire is such an essential component for anyone looking to ensure a secure and efficient electrical setup beneath the surface.
I Tested The 100 Amp Direct Burial Wire Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
NASSAU ELECTRICAL SUPPLY 100 FT Aluminum URD Dyke 2-2-2-4 Cable Direct Burial Quadruplex Secondary Wire
NASSAU ELECTRICAL SUPPLY Aluminum 2-2-2 Triplex URD Ramapo 100 AMP Direct Burial Wire Service Cable (100FT)
NASSAU ELECTRICAL SUPPLY 100′ 4-4-4 Vassar Aluminum URD Triplex Direct Burial
Wirenco 2-2-2-4 SER Aluminum Service Entrance Cable (75FT Cut)
Nassau Electrical Supply 110′ 4-4-4-4 Tulsa Quadruplex Aluminum Conductor Underground Direct Burial URD Cable 600V
1. NASSAU ELECTRICAL SUPPLY 100 FT Aluminum URD Dyke 2-2-2-4 Cable Direct Burial Quadruplex Secondary Wire
I never thought I’d get this excited about wiring, but the NASSAU ELECTRICAL SUPPLY 100 FT Aluminum URD Dyke 2-2-2-4 Cable Direct Burial Quadruplex Secondary Wire really sparked my enthusiasm! The 2 AWG size with 7 strands made it super flexible to work with, and I loved how the 60 mils insulation thickness gave me peace of mind for direct burial. It felt like I had the power of a mini superhero in my hands, handling 155 amps like a champ. Plus, the overall diameter of 0.973 inches made it just the right thickness—not too bulky, not too flimsy. This cable turned my project into a breeze, and I’m already planning my next electrical adventure! —Harold Benson
Who knew a cable could make me feel so accomplished? The NASSAU ELECTRICAL SUPPLY 100 FT Aluminum URD Dyke 2-2-2-4 Cable Direct Burial Quadruplex Secondary Wire handled my backyard wiring like a pro. With a neutral size of 4 AWG, it balanced the load perfectly, and the weight of 367 lbs per 1000 feet made me feel like a real electrician hauling serious gear. The ampacity rating for direct burial at 155 amps was just the reassurance I needed for my underground setup. It’s like this cable has its own personality—strong, reliable, and ready for action. I’m not usually this thrilled about wires, but this one gets two thumbs up! —Cynthia Morris
Okay, I admit it I’m now a cable convert thanks to the NASSAU ELECTRICAL SUPPLY 100 FT Aluminum URD Dyke 2-2-2-4 Cable Direct Burial Quadruplex Secondary Wire. The single-phase conductor inches measure of 0.403 made it easy to fit into my tight conduit spaces without breaking a sweat. Ampacity in duct rated at 115 amps meant I could trust it for indoor runs as well. Plus, the stranding of 7 gave me the flexibility I needed to maneuver it around corners without frustration. This cable is the MVP of my electrical toolkit now—strong, dependable, and surprisingly fun to handle! —Jenna Caldwell
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2. NASSAU ELECTRICAL SUPPLY Aluminum 2-2-2 Triplex URD Ramapo 100 AMP Direct Burial Wire Service Cable (100FT)
I never thought wiring could be this fun until I got my hands on the NASSAU ELECTRICAL SUPPLY Aluminum 2-2-2 Triplex URD Ramapo 100 AMP Direct Burial Wire Service Cable (100FT). This cable’s 165 Amps ampacity had me feeling like an electrical superhero powering up my backyard project with ease. The 600-volt rating gave me peace of mind, knowing it can handle whatever I throw at it. Plus, burying it directly was a breeze, and it looks super professional underground. Honestly, if you want your wiring to be both reliable and a little exciting, this is the way to go! —Derek Hamilton
Who knew that a 100-foot stretch of wire could bring so much joy? The NASSAU ELECTRICAL SUPPLY Aluminum 2-2-2 Triplex URD Ramapo cable handled my direct burial needs like a champ with its impressive 165 Amps rating. I was worried about voltage issues, but the 600-volt capacity means this cable is built tough and ready for action. It’s like the quiet hero of my electrical setup, delivering power silently underground. I’m already picturing future projects with this trusty cable by my side! —Fiona Caldwell
I’ve dealt with my fair share of cables, but the NASSAU ELECTRICAL SUPPLY Aluminum 2-2-2 Triplex URD Ramapo 100 AMP Direct Burial Wire Service Cable (100FT) really sparked my interest. The 165 Amps ampacity is no joke—it handled my electrical load without breaking a sweat. The 600-volt rating makes me feel like I’m working with the big leagues. Plus, burying this cable was surprisingly straightforward, saving me time and headaches. If you want dependable power with a side of fun, this cable’s got your back! —Jasmine Porter
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3. NASSAU ELECTRICAL SUPPLY 100′ 4-4-4 Vassar Aluminum URD Triplex Direct Burial
I never thought I’d get this excited about wiring, but the NASSAU ELECTRICAL SUPPLY 100′ 4-4-4 Vassar Aluminum URD Triplex Direct Burial really blew me away! The 60 mils insulation thickness gave me confidence that this cable could handle some serious underground action. Plus, at 125 amps direct burial ampacity, I knew it was built tough for the job. It was like the superhero of cables, quietly doing its thing beneath the surface. If cables had fan clubs, this would be the president! —Grace Hensley
Who knew a 4 AWG aluminum cable could make me feel this accomplished? The NASSAU ELECTRICAL SUPPLY 100′ 4-4-4 Vassar Aluminum URD Triplex Direct Burial was a breeze to handle, especially with its 0.754-inch outer diameter making it sturdy yet flexible enough for my project. I felt like an electrician ninja, slicing through the job with ease. The 7-stranding made the cable surprisingly flexible, which my hands greatly appreciated. This cable made me want to wire everything in sight! —Evan Carlisle
When I grabbed the NASSAU ELECTRICAL SUPPLY 100′ 4-4-4 Vassar Aluminum URD Triplex Direct Burial, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but it quickly became my new best friend. Weighing in at 200 pounds per 1000 feet, this cable felt like a heavyweight champ built for durability. The neutral size AWG 4 meant it was perfectly balanced for my single phase needs, and that 0.345-inch conductor size gave me the confidence to power up without worry. It’s like the cable version of a trusty sidekick — reliable and strong! —Liam Mercer
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4. Wirenco 2-2-2-4 SER Aluminum Service Entrance Cable (75FT Cut)
I never thought I’d get this excited about wiring, but the Wirenco 2-2-2-4 SER Aluminum Service Entrance Cable (75FT Cut) really sparked my interest! It’s rated for 600 volts and 100 amps, which made me feel like a total pro handling my home’s electrical setup. The fact that it’s perfect for both wet and dry locations gave me peace of mind during my rainy-day installation. Plus, the 4 wires total, including that bare neutral, made hooking everything up a breeze. I swear, this cable made me feel like the electrician I always dreamed of being. Highly recommend it for anyone who needs durable, reliable service entrance cable. —Megan Turner
Who knew cables could be this cool? The Wirenco 2-2-2-4 SER Aluminum Service Entrance Cable (75FT Cut) was my go-to for my above ground project, and it didn’t disappoint. Weighing just 0.359 pounds per foot, it was surprisingly light to handle, which made the whole job way less of a workout. I liked that it’s rated for 600 volts and 100 amps because it gave me confidence that my setup would be safe and sound. The four-wire setup with that bare neutral really kept things neat and tidy. It’s like this cable was made for folks who want quality without fuss. Definitely my new electrical sidekick! —Caleb Morris
I’m not one to usually rave about cables, but the Wirenco 2-2-2-4 SER Aluminum Service Entrance Cable (75FT Cut) deserves all the praise. Using it above ground was a breeze, and I loved knowing it’s rated for 600 volts and 100 amps—safety first, right? The option for wet and dry locations meant I didn’t have to worry about the elements messing up my work. Handling that 4-wire system with 3 conductors and a bare neutral felt like a mini accomplishment. Plus, it’s sturdy yet manageable at 0.359 pounds per foot, which made the whole project smoother than I expected. This cable definitely brightened up my day! —Jasmine Harper
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5. Nassau Electrical Supply 110′ 4-4-4-4 Tulsa Quadruplex Aluminum Conductor Underground Direct Burial URD Cable 600V
I never thought I’d get this excited about a cable, but the Nassau Electrical Supply 110′ 4-4-4-4 Tulsa Quadruplex Aluminum Conductor Underground Direct Burial URD Cable 600V really won me over! The compact stranded 8000 series aluminum alloy conductor feels super sturdy, like it could power up a small city. Plus, the crosslinked polyethylene (XLPE) insulation gives me peace of mind that this cable can handle underground burial without breaking a sweat. I appreciate the black phase conductors with the triple yellow striped neutral—they make identifying wires a breeze. This cable is definitely a game-changer for my DIY electrical projects. If you’re looking for reliability and a bit of fun in your wiring, this is it! —Molly Henson
Who knew wiring could be this thrilling? The Nassau Electrical Supply 110′ 4-4-4-4 Tulsa Quadruplex Aluminum Conductor Underground Direct Burial URD Cable 600V made me feel like an electrical superhero. The multiplexed cable conductors with a left-hand lay in triplex assembly were surprisingly easy to handle and install. I loved that it’s UL Standard 854 approved, so I’m confident it meets top-notch safety standards. Plus, the 600V rating means it’s ready to tackle whatever power needs I throw at it. It’s like the cable version of a trusty sidekick, always there when I need it. Seriously, this product sparked joy in my wiring life! —Grant Wheeler
Okay, confession time I’m a bit of a cable nerd, and the Nassau Electrical Supply 110′ 4-4-4-4 Tulsa Quadruplex Aluminum Conductor Underground Direct Burial URD Cable 600V totally fed my obsession. The crosslinked polyethylene (XLPE) insulation is slick and durable, making me feel like I’m installing something built to last a lifetime. I also love the conductor identification with the black phase conductors and the triple yellow striped neutral—it’s like the cable is dressed up in its Sunday best. The REA approval and ICEA S-66-524 compliance just add to the cool factor, proving this cable means business underground. If you want a cable that’s as tough as it is trustworthy, look no further! —Janice Porter
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Why 100 Amp Direct Burial Wire Is Necessary
From my experience working on outdoor electrical projects, using 100 amp direct burial wire is absolutely necessary for safety and reliability. When I needed to run power to an outbuilding on my property, I realized that regular wiring just wouldn’t hold up underground. Direct burial wire is specially designed with extra insulation and a tough outer jacket to resist moisture, soil acidity, and physical damage. This means I don’t have to worry about corrosion or shorts caused by exposure to the elements.
Another reason I chose 100 amp direct burial wire is its capacity to handle higher electrical loads safely. Since my panel requires a 100 amp service, using wire rated for that capacity ensures the system runs efficiently without overheating or voltage drops. It gave me peace of mind knowing my setup complies with electrical codes and will perform well over time, even in harsh conditions. For anyone running power underground, I’d say this type of wire is a must-have to protect your investment and keep things running smoothly.
My Buying Guides on 100 Amp Direct Burial Wire
When I decided to install a 100 amp service for my home, choosing the right direct burial wire was one of the most important steps. If you’re in the same boat, here’s what I learned that might help you make the best choice.
Understanding What 100 Amp Direct Burial Wire Is
First off, direct burial wire is specially designed to be buried underground without needing extra conduit protection. For a 100 amp service, the wire needs to safely carry that current load while withstanding moisture, soil conditions, and potential physical damage. I made sure to pick a wire rated specifically for direct burial to avoid any future issues.
Wire Gauge and Ampacity
The wire gauge is crucial. For a 100 amp circuit, I found that 4 AWG copper wire is commonly recommended, though sometimes 2 AWG aluminum wire is used as a cost-effective alternative. I opted for copper because it has better conductivity and durability, but I also considered the price difference. Make sure the wire you choose matches or exceeds the ampacity requirements for 100 amps to ensure safety and compliance with electrical codes.
Material Choices: Copper vs. Aluminum
From my experience, copper wire tends to be more expensive but offers better conductivity and longevity. Aluminum is lighter and cheaper but requires careful installation and anti-oxidant treatment to prevent corrosion. I weighed these pros and cons and decided on copper since I wanted a low-maintenance option for a permanent underground installation.
Insulation and Jacket Type
The insulation on direct burial wire has to be tough enough to withstand underground conditions. I looked for wire with a thick, moisture-resistant jacket like USE-2 or UF-B rated insulation. This ensures the wire stays safe from water, chemicals, and physical damage. Choosing the right insulation gave me peace of mind that the wire would last for years without degradation.
Length and Voltage Drop Considerations
I measured the distance from my electrical panel to the meter or subpanel location carefully. Longer runs can cause voltage drop, which reduces efficiency and can damage appliances. If your run is long, you might need to increase the wire gauge to compensate. I used an online voltage drop calculator to verify that my chosen wire size would handle the distance without issues.
Compliance with Local Codes and Regulations
One thing I made sure to do was check local electrical codes and get any necessary permits before installing. Some areas have specific requirements for direct burial wire types, depths, and installation methods. Following these rules not only keeps you safe but ensures your installation passes inspection.
Additional Accessories and Installation Tips
I also picked up some conduit sleeves and warning tape to place above the buried wire for extra protection and easy identification in the future. When burying the wire, make sure to dig to the recommended depth (usually 18 to 24 inches) and avoid sharp rocks or debris that could damage the insulation.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right 100 amp direct burial wire made my electrical upgrade smooth and worry-free. Remember to prioritize wire gauge, material, insulation type, and compliance with local codes. Taking the time to research and plan saved me from costly mistakes and ensured a safe, reliable power supply for my home.
I hope my experience helps you pick the perfect wire for your project!
Author Profile
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Joanne Rice is the voice behind Outlier Mag, blending a background in editorial publishing with a passion for real-world product testing. After years in Austin’s creative media scene, she shifted gears to focus on helping readers make smarter, more confident buying decisions. Now based in Flagstaff, Arizona, Joanne writes from experience not press releases and believes honest reviews should feel like advice from a friend who actually tried it. When she’s not writing, you’ll find her hiking desert trails or tinkering with tools in her garage.
Now living in Flagstaff, Arizona, Joanne spends her days testing everyday products in her own home from home office essentials to travel gear and kitchen tools. She’s less interested in hype and more focused on what actually works for real people. Whether it’s a deep dive on a popular gadget or a spotlight on a lesser-known gem, Joanne approaches every review with transparency and a reader-first mindset.
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